Crafting Zero-Proof Cocktails with Björn Taylor
Episode Overview
Björn Taylor's journey to sobriety and wellness. Innovative zero-proof cocktail development. Impact of non-alcoholic beverage trends in Austin. Björn's role in redefining hospitality culture. Future of inclusive drink experiences.
We're showing people you can live a big, fat, juicy, awesome life without all of that stuff. It's just going to keep getting better.
In the latest episode of the Creative Sobriety Podcast, host Kristen Bear introduces listeners to Björn Taylor, a veteran bartender with over two decades of experience. Björn has been sober for more than five years and is now a prominent figure in the non-alcoholic beverage industry in Austin, Texas. Known for his contributions to award-winning bar programs at venues like Otoko, Emmer & Rye, and Midnight Cowboy, Björn's work focuses on creating inclusive beverage experiences that reflect depth, creativity, and care.
Björn shares his personal journey to sobriety, detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced while transitioning to a sober lifestyle in the bustling restaurant and bar industry. He emphasizes the importance of wellness and mindful hospitality, advocating for healthier and more inclusive drinking options. Björn's expertise in zero-proof and non-alcoholic cocktail development has made him a respected figure in Austin's vibrant nightlife scene, where he continues to innovate and redefine what hospitality can be.
The episode also highlights the growing trend of non-alcoholic beverages, with Björn discussing the expanding options available and the positive impact this has on the community. He talks about his recent involvement in opening new establishments like Uptown Sports Club and The Equipment Room at Hotel Magdalena, which focus on providing exceptional non-alcoholic drink experiences. Björn's passion for spreading awareness about the benefits of a sober lifestyle is evident throughout the conversation.
He speaks about the sense of normalcy and joy found in social settings without alcohol, and how these experiences can be enriching. His vision for the future includes a hospitality industry where non-alcoholic options are abundant, ensuring all customers have access to enjoyable and responsible choices. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mixology, wellness, or the evolving landscape of non-alcoholic beverages. Björn Taylor's insights offer valuable perspectives on living a fulfilling and vibrant life without alcohol.